Packages start at $2,750*

TRAVEL INFO

Cancellation and Payment PolicyTours canceled within 35 days of departure will be charged in full. A 10% non-refundable deposit will be taken by credit card at the time of booking.

Private Tour OptionThis tour can also be operated as a private tour. Contact a tour specialist for details.

Group SizeOur vehicles are designed to carry up to 12 passengers in individual leather captain’s seats. Tour group size will range from 8 guest, which is our guest minimum to operate this tour, up to 12 guests in our custom tour vans.

Staff/Tour GuidesOur guides have many years of experience in leading tours throughout the American West. Their knowledge and enthusiasm will ensure that everyone gets the most from each destination.

Accommodation/LodgingThe hotels will be 3-4 stars. The accommodation has been chosen to give passengers the best access to the surrounding areas. For those traveling alone there are single occupancy rates available.

Activity LevelsThis tour offers a wide range of walking opportunities, which require a reasonable level of fitness mostly due to possible elevation changes. The level of activity can be suited to and catered for almost all levels of fitness. It is not an activity holiday, just an active holiday.

Baggage AllowanceIndividual luggage must be kept to a maximum of one piece of luggage less than 50 pounds. It is recommended to travel with a small day pack for easy access to camera, sun block, and clothing. We advise our clients to pack as lightly as possible.

Temperature/WeatherTemperatures in the region offer almost perfect weather but can vary by season. We recommend our guests bring a light jacket in case of occasional showers.

InsuranceTravel insurance is a vital aspect to booking a holiday, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise spoil your holiday. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that properly covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking.

NoteTerms and conditions will be provided and must be agreed upon separately for this tour.

Because DETOURS travels with a maximum of 13 passengers, this allows us to take a flexible approach and take full advantage of touring opportunities in the American West.

Due to the developing tourism industry in the area, changes can and do occur in this type of program. Weather conditions, sometimes severe enough to limit where we can drive or walk, can also alter the program. As visitors, we will respect this, and remain flexible and open to local conditions, safety concerns and unforeseen opportunities. Our guides will do their best to keep things on track and in the event that our schedule changes, they will try to keep disruption to a minimum, consider your wishes, and organize other options as far as it is reasonable and practical to do so.

TOUR ITINERARY

DONOVAN’S DETOUR FROM PHOENIX

Day 1 (included in tour cost):

Arrive in beautiful Phoenix, AZ where Donovan will meet you for an informal welcome drink at the airport. He will answer any questions you may have about the upcoming tour and ensure your transport to Tempe Mission Palms so you can settle in before the tour departs in the morning.

Overnight at Tempe Mission Palms in Tempe, AZ

Day 2:

Feel the cool desert air as we depart Tempe, AZ and travel tour through the Petrified Forest and the Painted Desert to Hubbell Trading Post. This living historic site was built in 1878 and the Navajo people still trade here today. From beautiful baskets to turquoise jewelry, there is much to see and touch when touring Hubbell Trading Post. Next, the guided tour takes us to Window Rock, the capitol of the Navajo Nation. A local official will guide us through the Council Chambers and educate us about how the Navajo Nation is governed. We’ll also enjoy incredible views of the ‘window’ at Window Rock as Donovan explains why this location is especially personal to him. Tonight, we’ll settle in at the Quality Inn after a fun and educational day of native history.

Overnight at Quality Inn in Window Rock, AZ

Day 3:

This morning we’ll tour to another significant historic post over a century old: Two Grey Hills Trading Post. This location is the primary source of authentic rugs and tapestries, and is known around the world as the finest in Navajo weaving. After a catered Navajo lunch, our group travels the Navajo Overpass along the Chuska Mountains into Canyon de Chelly National Monument in the Heart of the Dinetah.

Tour Canyon del Muerto, where Navajo fought off Spanish invdaers and where many hid when the Navajo were forced off their lands in the late 1800’s by the US Army.

Overnight at Thunderbird Lodge in Chinle, AZ

Day 4:

Heading north, the route takes us into Utah along the San Juan River to visit the Sand island Petroglyph site, a wealth of ancient rock art. It’s a wonderful place for a picnic along the banks of the river. A dramatic drive past the Valley of the Gods leads to Monument Valley for a tour into the heart of this collection of sandstone spires and monuments in the late afternoon light. We’ll take our time to experience this timeless western destination, away from the crowds. Sunset overlooking Monument Valley is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Overnight at Lake Powell Resort in Page, AZ

Day 5:

There is an optional sunrise walk before turning west to Navajo National Monument which offers a peaceful walk along the Sandal Trail to the Betatakin Ruins overlook – and maybe a picnic lunch. This was one of the major cities of the Ancient Ones and is a sight to behold. Next, we’ll visit Horseshoe Bend, one of the most iconic and dramatic views of the Colorado River. A short walk to the overlook ends in stunning views of the only 270 degree turn of the river. Tonight, we’ll settle in at the Lake Powell Resort with unparalleled views of the buttes and islands. An optional boat tour of Lower Antelope Canyon through the twisting and turning sandstone formations is available upon request.

Overnight at Lake Powell Resort in Page, AZ

Day 6:

This morning we’ll join our Navajo guide to hike Lower Antelope Canyon and experience one of the most beautiful slot canyons in the American West. It’s always been a special place for the Navajo, much like a cathedral, and very much a spiritual experience. Explore Navajo Museum in Tuba City for a detailed look into the Navajo culture and history. The afternoon leads us into the Hopi Nation’s First Mesa, the home of historic Walpi Village, continuously inhabited for more than 1100 years. Walpi stands above the valley at 300 feet, surrounded by awesome vistas of the sky and distant horizon. Our Hopi guide will enlighten the group as to the Tribe’s culture and history.

Finally on to Route 66 and Winslow, Arizona for our final night at the famous La Posada Hotel. A hosted dinner tonight at the Turquoise Room will celebrate the journey and perhaps help you plan for your next one!

Overnight at La Posada Hotel in Winslow, AZ

Day 7:

After breakfast, we’ll enjoy a beautiful drive along Route 66 to Flagstaff and onto the scenic views of Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona. The famous red rock formations surrounding Sedona are some of the most photographed on Earth. Sedona has been home to several Native American Tribes in the past including the Singua and the Yavapai. The day ends as we travel back to the Phoenix area for your flight home or a continuation of your Arizona vacation at a local resort.

Pre-night in Tempe, AZ included. Post-night in Tempe, AZ available upon request.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Double occupancy lodging in a 3-4 star hotel/lodge throughout the tour including pre-night at Tempe Mission Palms in Tempe, AZ

Meals: all breakfasts, all lunches and one hosted dinner

Unlimited bottled water

Entrance fees to National Parks, State Parks, Tribal Parks, or other named activities

Experienced, professional tour guide and local step on guide services when required

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

Additional third party tours and activities not listed above

Meals not listed above

Incidental hotel fees

Travel insurance

Guide gratuities

TRAVEL TIPS

Temperatures in the region offer almost perfect weather but can vary by season. We recommend our guests bring a light jacket in case of occasional showers.